Birth Complications

Although rare, there are a number of complications which can arise during labour and shortly after childbirth. Often, doctors will be able to deal with these issues promptly and effectively, with little risk to you and your child. However, in some circumstances, sufficient action is not taken by medical professionals.

This can result in conditions such as cerebral palsy – a brain injury which affects a child’s movement and can cause associated problems such as learning difficulties and epilepsy.

Oxygen deprivation or shoulder dystocia – when a baby’s shoulder becomes lodged behind the mother’s pelvis – can both be causes, and may be down to medical negligence.

Although conditions such as cerebral palsy are very complex, if you feel that medical negligence has played a part, get in contact with an expert medical negligence solicitor who can help you investigate the case further with independent medical experts. Unfortunately, in some cases stillbirth or infant mortality can also be caused by negligence and failure to act on the part of medical professionals. Whilst money cannot compensate for the loss of a child, it can alleviate some of the costs associated.

Birth Injuries

The mother can also sustain birth injuries during pregnancy and labour, including damage to the perineum and vagina - causing sexual dysfunction and the loss of bowel and bladder control. Complications with Caesarean sections, tearing and incorrect use of forceps or ventouse delivery can all be to blame.

However, physical damage is not the only injury that some women walk away with; as many as 10,000 women a year develop Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) as a result of a traumatic birth. If you are struggling with the symptoms of PTSD, associations can provide support. 

Table of Contents
1. Birth Injuries
2. Medical negligence: what to do
 
 
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